A pane of glass was all that prevented three Kiwi travellers from being dragged underneath a train when it derailed in Thailand.

It was a free school meal of rice, lentils and potatoes. But it was tainted by insecticide, and by the end of lunch 22 children were dead.

Japan's snow tours ensure Doug Conway has lots to do.

Chris Harrington discovers a village in Thailand with a distinctly Chinese history.

The Togian Islands off the northern Indonesian island of Sulawesi offer some of the best diving spots on earth.

It's hard to beat Thailand's beaches. But where to go if you've been to Phuket and Koh Samui, the most popular choice of tourists, and you'd like to try somewhere slightly less crowded?

Derek Cheng challenges himself and sets a new personal best for culinary repugnancy.

The news is in that Malaysia is the cheapest destination for shopping, and Kuala Lumpur is the home to some of the best malls in Asia. And, as luck would have it, there are plenty of shops to buy new luggage.

War and uncertainty have left their mark on Kabul, but there is hope, writes Peter Feeney.

Luxury steps up to new high-tech levels at a renowned Hong Kong institution.

China is making up for lost time on the fairways with the most opulent courses you've ever seen, writes James Ihaka.

Jennifer Ennion discovers Thailand's Koh Phangan is perfect for those who want to get away from it all.

A peek behind the scenes at Cathay Pacific's kitchens fascinates Shandelle Battersby.

Kris Shannon gets busy in the Japanese capital.

Devout desert dwellers and blessed bovines live in harmony in the Rajasthan desert, writes Paul Rush.

Paul Rush experiences courtyard cuisine in the back streets of Beijing.

India certainly shouldn't be top of the list for a first-time solo female traveller, says Emilia Terzon.

The thriving island city-state of Singapore has come a long way from its swampy roots as a banana republic.

Mainland Chinese say they intend to study abroad in far greater numbers.

A trip to the bridge that cost so many prisoners of war their lives is a poignant experience, writes Peter Feeney.

Skiing destinations tend to be in well-heeled areas - from Queenstown to the Austrian Alps and Whistler. Naturally, North Korea wants to take its place alongside the well-groomed resorts.